Why in News?
ISRO recently confirmed that the atomic clock onboard the IRNSS-1F satellite has stopped functioning. This has reduced the number of satellites providing full navigation services (Position, Navigation, and Timing) to only three, which is below the minimum threshold of four required for accurate location tracking.
Key Features
- Core Objective: Developed by ISRO to ensure strategic autonomy, particularly after the US denied India GPS data during the 1999 Kargil War.
- Coverage Area: Provides accurate positioning over India and a region extending up to 1,500 km beyond its borders.
- Services Provided:
- Standard Positioning Service (SPS): Open for civilian use with an accuracy of approximately 5–10 metres.
- Restricted Service (RS): An encrypted signal for strategic and military users.
- Satellite Configuration:
- Designed for a constellation of 7 active satellites.
- Uses a combination of Geostationary (GEO) and Geosynchronous (IGSO) orbits to ensure constant coverage over the Indian subcontinent.
- Second-Generation (NVS Series) Upgrades:
- Indigenous Atomic Clocks: Transitioning from imported Swiss clocks to homegrown Rubidium atomic clocks to improve reliability.
- Longer Lifespan: Increased mission life of 12 years compared to the 10-year life of the first generation.
- New Frequency (L1): Broadcasts in L1, L5, and S bands for better performance in congested urban areas and forests.
- Mandatory Use: Since 2019, NavIC-based tracking is mandatory for commercial vehicles in India.
- International Recognition: Recognized by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) as part of the World-Wide Radio Navigation System.
Download Pdf
